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  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 17, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: impersonation scam, , ,   

    Medicare is NOT issuing new plastic cards 

    Medicare is NOT issuing new plastic cards

    By Greg Collier

    Recently, many individuals have reported receiving phone calls about needing to update their Medicare cards to new plastic ones with chips, often accompanied by requests for personal details. Unfortunately, these calls are part of a scam that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has noted is currently seeing a spike.

    Medicare cards are paper, and the agency has no plans to issue plastic cards. Any call suggesting the need to upgrade to a plastic card is a clear red flag. Treat your Medicare card like a credit card. Never share your Medicare number over the phone, especially if you did not initiate the call. Medicare will never call you to verify your card number or request personal information.

    If you receive a call from someone asking for your Medicare number or offering a new card, hang up immediately. Then, call Medicare directly using the number on your official paperwork or their official website to verify if any changes are needed.

    Be cautious if a caller asks you to pay for a new card or offers additional benefits in exchange for personal information. Medicare cards are free, and any request for payment is a scam.

    If you believe you have been targeted by a Medicare scam, report it immediately to the FTC and your local authorities. Additionally, you can contact Medicare directly to report suspicious activity.

    Scammers are continually devising new ways to exploit vulnerable individuals. By understanding how Medicare operates and recognizing the signs of fraud, you can safeguard your personal information and benefits. Always verify calls claiming to be from government agencies and report any suspicious activity to protect yourself and others from falling victim to these scams.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 15, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , impersonation scam, ,   

    Scammers pose as process servers 

    Scammers pose as process servers

    By Greg Collier

    Process servers play a crucial role in the legal system by ensuring that all parties receive proper notification of legal actions against them, which is a fundamental aspect of due process. They deliver various legal documents, such as subpoenas, summons, complaints, and court orders, to defendants, witnesses, and other parties involved in a legal proceeding.

    They ensure that the delivery of documents follows the legal requirements and procedures set forth by the jurisdiction where the case is being heard. This is crucial to ensure that the served party’s legal rights are upheld.

    Sometimes, finding the person to be served can be challenging. Process servers may need to use investigative skills to locate individuals who are avoiding service or have moved to an unknown address. Process servers typically do not call the parties they are serving to demand personal information. However, scammers have exploited the public’s lack of knowledge about process servers.

    According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), scammers are posing as process servers and calling their victims over the phone. The caller claims there’s a lien on the victim’s home, or that they’re being taken to court over unpaid bills.

    Additionally, the scammers may claim you or a family member are a person of interest in a matter that requires immediate attention, while hiding behind the lie that federal law prohibits them from sharing any additional information about the matter.

    From there, the scammer will ask a victim to confirm sensitive personal information, such as their date of birth, address, or Social Security number. If a victim asks too many questions, the scammer may become angry and threaten further action.

    Again, process servers do not call their targets in advance. The element of surprise is crucial to effectively serving legal documents, ensuring the recipient cannot avoid the service. They do not have the authority to arrest individuals, enforce court orders, or take any action beyond delivering legal documents. They cannot compel individuals to comply with legal documents they serve.

    These Scammers may already have some personal information from previous scams or data breaches. Avoid providing additional details unless you are sure of the caller’s legitimacy. Be cautious with questions that require a simple yes or no answer.

    You should also avoid providing any information about friends and family members, as these scammers may be targeting someone you know rather than you directly. Instead, hang up the phone and notify the family member about the call you received. This way, they can be on the lookout for other scams and take action to protect their personal and financial information if it’s at risk or has been stolen.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 11, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , impersonation scam,   

    Police warn of phone scam targeting the elderly 

    Police warn of phone scam targeting the elderly

    By Greg Collier

    The Chesterfield County, Virginia, Police Department is alerting the community about a troubling cell phone scam after an elderly couple fell victim to it earlier this week. In this case, the scammer posed as the attorney of the couple’s great nephew, leading to a significant financial loss for the unsuspecting victims.

    The caller informed the elderly couple that their great nephew had been involved in a car accident, resulting in the death of his passenger. The scammer then claimed that the nephew was in jail and required bail money. Under this false pretense, the couple was instructed to withdraw a substantial amount of money from their bank and wait at home for further instructions.

    The couple withdrew the money and returned home. Shortly after, someone arrived at their house to collect the money and took it to an unknown location. Often, the person collecting the money is an unwitting rideshare driver, making the scam not only financially devastating for the victims but also dangerous for the driver. We’re reminded of the Uber driver who was shot and killed by a scam victim earlier this year.

    These types of scams, known as grandparent scams, specifically target older individuals due to their trusting nature. Scammers exploit this trust, leading victims to act on the false information before verifying it.

    To avoid falling prey to such scams, verification is crucial. If you receive such a call, contact your relatives directly to verify their situation. Additionally, be cautious of unknown phone numbers and do not feel obligated to answer them.

    The Chesterfield Police Department shared essential tips with residents to help them avoid being scammed. A lawyer will not call you from jail to get someone out, especially if they just got arrested, nor will they send a courier to pick up bail money. Your family members should be able to make a phone call to you. A lawyer or bondsman will not be at the jail with them.

    If someone you know has been arrested and calls you, they will use a system that identifies them as an inmate at that facility. Always verify the identity of the caller by asking specific questions.

    Scammers are convincing and use scare tactics. If you feel uncomfortable, hang up the phone. Couriers are often unaware they are involved in a scam. If one shows up, call the police. No legitimate entity will ask for payment in cash, gold, gift cards, or cryptocurrency.

    Lastly, Let unknown calls go to voicemail. If it’s important, they will leave a message.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 9, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: impersonation scam, ,   

    Missing pet scams rise after 4th 

    Missing pet scams rise after 4th

    By Greg Collier

    Following the recent Fourth of July celebrations over the past weekend, many pets have gone missing due to excessive fireworks in their areas. Unfortunately, scammers are exploiting the anxieties of pet owners during this time. Roanoke, Virginia, provides a prime example of how these scams are unfolding.

    The Roanoke Valley SPCA has reported a surge in calls about missing pets during this time. Losing a pet is every owner’s nightmare. The hope that comes with a call saying their beloved animal has been found can quickly turn to despair when it’s revealed to be a scam.

    Recently, two residents contacted the shelter after receiving suspicious calls. The scammer, posing as a third-party representative for the Roanoke Valley SPCA, claimed that their pets had been found but were injured in car accidents. The scammer said the dogs needed treatment for dislocated shoulders and requested the owners’ credit card information to cover the medical expenses. Victims were pressured and threatened with losing custody of their pets if they did not comply.

    The Roanoke Valley SPCA assures that pets will never be held hostage and emphasizes that they do not take in or treat stray animals. The organization would never ask for credit card payment over the phone or hold a pet for ransom.

    Posting about missing pets on social media can make pet owners targets for scammers due to the publicly accessible information and detailed descriptions shared in these posts. Desperate and emotionally vulnerable, owners often include contact information, making it easy for scammers to reach out and exploit their distress. Scammers use emotional manipulation, claiming the pet is injured or needs immediate medical attention, to pressure owners into quick payments. While social media can help in finding lost pets by reaching a large audience, it also increases the risk of scammers seeing the posts and taking advantage of the situation.

    To avoid being scammed when looking for a missing pet, owners should share information in trusted community groups, avoid posting personal contact details publicly, and verify claims by asking specific questions only someone with the pet would know. Be skeptical of anyone requesting money upfront for the pet’s return, and report suspicious contacts to authorities. Ensure pets are microchipped and have ID tags, and stay informed about local scams by following animal shelters and veterinary offices for alerts and advice. These precautions can help protect owners from scams while effectively utilizing resources to find their lost pets.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 5, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , impersonation scam, , ,   

    Farmers scammed buying shipping containers 

    Farmers scammed buying shipping containers

    By Greg Collier

    An Arizona farm owner decided to expand their barn using shipping containers due to their durability and resistance to wind and water. Seeking convenience, they turned to online marketplaces like Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to find suitable containers. Their search led them to a seller claiming to represent a company selling shipping containers.

    After researching the company and finding positive reviews, the buyer communicated with a man through Facebook Messenger. The man’s prompt responses and attentiveness built a sense of trust. However, when it came time to make the purchase, several red flags emerged.

    To proceed, nearly $2,700 needed to be paid upfront. The buyer preferred to pay with a credit card for added protection, but the man insisted on a check made out to an individual instead of the business. Although this raised suspicions, the man’s explanations seemed plausible, and the payment was made.

    The problems began when the delivery date approached. The buyer faced constant delays, excuses, and a demand for an additional $3,500 in insurance. Growing increasingly uneasy, they decided to contact the container company directly using the information on their official website.

    The response was a devastating blow. The real container company had no record of the order, invoice, or any knowledge of the man they were communicating with. The buyer had been dealing with scammers impersonating the legitimate company to defraud consumers on third-party websites.

    This experience highlights the importance of thorough verification when making large purchases. Here are key takeaways to protect yourself from similar scams.

    Always contact the company directly using information from their official website. Never rely solely on contact details provided by the seller.

    Be wary if a company insists on communicating only through messaging platforms. Legitimate businesses typically offer multiple communication channels, including phone and email.

    Whenever possible, pay with a credit card, which offers better fraud protection. Be cautious of sellers requesting payment through irreversible methods like cashier’s checks or wire transfers.

    Check reviews on multiple websites and search for any reports of scams or imposters. Include terms like “scam” or “fraud” in your search.

    If a seller pressures you to make a quick decision, take a step back. Consider your options carefully before committing.

    If you suspect you’ve fallen victim to a scam, report it immediately. Contact your local law enforcement and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Prompt reporting can help authorities track and combat fraudulent activities.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on July 3, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: impersonation scam, , ,   

    Extreme heat gives rise to utility scams 

    Extreme heat gives rise to shut off scams

    By Greg Collier

    With the current high heat temperatures hitting the region, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing a warning to residents to be on high alert for utility scams. These scams tend to spike during extreme weather events when people are more reliant on their utilities, such as air conditioning, making them more vulnerable to threats of service termination.

    Scammers often pose as employees of water, electric, and gas companies, employing various tactics to deceive both residents and business owners. They typically contact potential victims via phone calls, texts, or by knocking on doors.

    The most common utility scam is the shut-off scam. This scam involves scammers posing as representatives from the power company when contacting their victims over the phone. They threaten to terminate the victim’s electric service due to an alleged past-due balance, insisting that the service will be disconnected within 15 to 30 minutes unless an immediate payment is made. These scammers often demand payment through unconventional methods such as gift cards, and in some cases, they have instructed victims to use Bitcoin ATMs for payment.

    However, the BBB is now reporting that some utility scammers are taking it one step further by showing up to the doors of their victims. Posing as utility employees, scammers may show up at your door in what appears to be a credible uniform. They might claim that your meter is malfunctioning and needs immediate replacement at your expense, or that they need access to your property to make necessary repairs or conduct an energy audit. The true intent is often to steal items or gather personal information.

    The BBB emphasizes that requests for prepaid debit cards, gift cards, digital wallet apps, or wire transfers are significant red flags. Pressure for immediate payment and personal information is another warning sign. To protect yourself, you can follow these steps.

    If you receive a suspicious call or message, hang up and call the customer service number listed on your utility bill. Do not allow anyone into your home or business unless you have a scheduled appointment or have reported a problem directly to your utility company.

    If you believe you have been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, contact your local police and report the incident to BBB Scam Tracker.

    By following these guidelines, you can safeguard your personal information and finances from falling into the wrong hands.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 28, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , impersonation scam, ,   

    More scammers force victims to buy gold 

    More scammers force victims to buy gold

    By Greg Collier

    In a concerning incident highlighting the ongoing threat of financial scams, two college students from Ohio were recently arrested in Bourbon County, Kentucky, after allegedly scamming an elderly woman out of hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the FBI, uncovered the elaborate scheme and apprehended the suspects.

    According to the victim, she had been contacted via email and phone by individuals posing as IRS agents and representatives from her financial organization. The scammers convinced her that her account had been hacked, prompting her to withdraw hundreds of thousands of dollars from her bank under the pretext of home remodeling plans.

    Under the scammers’ instructions, the woman deposited a substantial sum at a bitcoin location. But the deception didn’t end there. The perpetrators also persuaded her to wire additional funds to New York to purchase gold bars valued at nearly a quarter of a million dollars. The gold bars were then shipped to her home in Bourbon County, where the scammers intended to collect them.

    Acting swiftly, the Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the FBI, intercepted the scammers. Authorities listened to multiple phone conversations that detailed the scheme. When the suspects arrived to retrieve the gold bars, law enforcement officers were ready and took them into custody.

    During questioning, the suspects admitted to committing similar scams in the past, including a case in Ohio where they stole a significant amount of cash from another victim. Both suspects have been charged with conspiracy to commit theft by deception over $10,000.

    Protecting yourself from scams like the one described requires awareness, and proactive measures. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself.

    If you receive a call, email, or message claiming to be from a government agency (such as the IRS) or a financial institution, do not provide any personal information. Instead, independently verify the contact by calling the official number listed on the agency’s or institution’s official website.

    Scammers often create a sense of urgency to prompt hasty actions. Be suspicious of any unsolicited communication that demands immediate action or payment.

    Notify your financial institution immediately if you believe your account has been compromised or if you have been instructed to make unusual transactions.

    If you suspect you have been targeted by a scam, report it to local law enforcement or the appropriate federal agency, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or the FBI.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 25, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: impersonation scam, , ,   

    Recognizing romance scams in a military town 

    Recognizing romance scams in a military town

    By Greg Collier

    Jacksonville, Florida, has a significant military history and continues to have a strong military presence today. It is home to several major military installations. The area’s military roots can be traced back to World War II, when the need for naval air operation bases led to the development of Naval Air Station Jacksonville. This installation became a central hub for naval aviation training and operations.

    So it should come as no surprise that Jacksonville, like many other military town, is vulnerable to military romance scams. One of the more common tactics romance scammers use is impersonating military service members. They craft believable stories and manipulate emotions to exploit people, often leading to requests for money. If you suspect that someone you’ve met online might be a scammer posing as a military member, here’s how to spot the fakes and protect yourself.

    Scammers frequently use stolen photos of real military personnel. If you’re doubtful about a profile, a reverse image search can be your first line of defense. This allows you to see if the photo appears elsewhere on the internet, perhaps on multiple profiles under different names, which is a red flag.

    Take the individual’s name and add terms like “scam” or “imposter” to your search query. This can reveal if others have reported similar experiences or if the person has been flagged as a scammer. This step can provide you with crucial information that might save you from falling into a trap.

    The most glaring red flag is when they ask for money. Scammers will weave elaborate tales of need, but the story always ends with them asking for your financial help. If your online acquaintance asks for money, such as emergencies, equipment, or even plane tickets, be very skeptical. Remember, genuine connections do not start with a financial transaction.

    If they request money through non-traditional channels like gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencies, it’s almost certain that you’re dealing with a scammer. These methods are preferred by fraudsters due to the difficulty of tracing and retrieving funds once they’re sent.

    Scammers often have reasons why they can’t meet in person or appear on a video call. They might claim to be stationed overseas or in a highly secure area. If you find inconsistencies in their stories or continuous excuses that keep them from meeting you face-to-face, it’s likely a scam.

    Scammers are adept at forming quick emotional connections. Talks of love and marriage can come too quickly when someone has ulterior motives. Be cautious of someone who professes deep feelings without ever having met you, as this is a common tactic used to lower your defenses.

    Always approach online relationships with caution, especially if the person claims to be a military service member stationed overseas. Use the tools and tips above to verify their identity. Protecting your heart and your wallet starts with skepticism and verifying the authenticity of those you meet online. Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 20, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: , , duplicate purchase, impersonation scam, ,   

    Victim falls to duplicate purchase scam 

    Victim falls to duplicate purchase scam

    By Greg Collier

    In a world increasingly dependent on digital communication, tech support scams have become alarmingly sophisticated. This was the unfortunate reality for an Orlando resident, who recently fell victim to such a scam, losing $2500 in the process. Despite the scammers not getting away with any money, the ordeal continues as he struggles to get a refund from the merchant.

    The victim was simply trying to share photos between his phone and computer when he encountered a pop-up warning about a problem with his Microsoft account. The pop-up directed him to an online chat for assistance, where things quickly took a sinister turn.

    He initially believed the support was legitimate. The online chat session led him to a supposed Microsoft specialist who called him and convinced him to allow remote access to his computer. What seemed like a routine tech support call soon escalated into a high-stress scam scenario.

    The scammer, posing as a tech support specialist, claimed that the victim’s computer and phone had been compromised, and there was likely an issue with his bank account. He was then connected with another scammer pretending to be a bank manager, who falsely claimed that $7000 had been stolen from his account through the purchase of gift cards.

    The fake bank manager suggested a dubious solution: to make a duplicate purchase of the gift cards, which would allegedly trigger an account alert and allow him to cancel both transactions. Despite feeling uncomfortable, the victim was desperate to secure his funds. He purchased ten $250 gift cards from a local store, totaling $2500.

    When the scammers asked the victim to read the numbers on the back of the gift cards, he finally realized something was amiss. Fortunately, he hadn’t scratched off the PINs or given the scammers any card numbers.

    However, the situation worsened when he sought a refund from the merchant. The company froze the cards, which he initially thought was part of the refund process. Despite this, he has been unable to get his money back or even use the cards, which remain frozen.

    If you ever receive unexpected contact from someone claiming to be from tech support or a financial institution, the best course of action is to end the call and directly contact the company using verified contact information. It’s also important to note that financial banks will never request a withdrawal of funds in such situations.

    It’s crucial to remember that legitimate banks will never ask you to make duplicate purchases or buy gift cards to resolve issues with your account. Such requests are clear red flags of a scam. Always verify any unusual instructions directly with your bank through official contact methods to protect yourself from fraud.

     

  • Geebo 8:00 am on June 19, 2024 Permalink | Reply
    Tags: 411, , , impersonation scam,   

    Ticket scam keeps widow from husband’s funeral 

    By Greg Collier

    A 79-year-old widow from Central Florida missed her husband’s funeral due to a sophisticated scam. She had cherished 59 wonderful years with her late husband.

    Her husband passed away in March, and the family had planned to lay him to rest in their family cemetery in Wisconsin. The widow, along with her son and grandson, was scheduled to fly from Orlando-Sanford International Airport to Appleton, Wisconsin, on June 1. However, a medical emergency forced her to miss the initial flight. Determined to attend her husband’s funeral, she had to book a last-minute ticket on her own.

    Admittedly, not being tech-savvy, she dialed 411 to get the contact details for the airline. She was connected to a man who claimed to be from the airline, and explained her urgent need for a flight. The man quoted an exorbitant price of $988 for a roundtrip flight, citing the funeral as a reason for the inflated cost. He even provided what seemed to be a legitimate airline boarding pass with a confirmation code.

    She arrived at the airport with her confirmation code. The ticket counter accepted the code, issued her a boarding pass, checked her luggage, and even provided wheelchair assistance through TSA. Yet, when it was time to board, she was left at the gate.

    An airline supervisor broke the devastating news that her ticket was not valid. The supervisor claimed the widow was not the first of their customers to be scammed in this way. Additionally, the scammers had charged her card over a dozen times in small amounts, totaling roughly $2,000. Although her luggage made it to Appleton, Wisconsin, she missed her husband’s funeral.

    Airline customers should book directly through the airline’s official website to avoid falling victim to such scams. To ensure you have the correct customer service number, visit the airline’s website and obtain the number directly from there.

    If you rely solely on a web search for the airline’s phone number, there’s a high probability you could end up calling a scammer, as they often place ads on search engines to pose as airlines. Additionally, while calling 411 used to be a reliable way to get correct phone information, this service has largely been phased out by most phone providers.

    To protect yourself from scams, always verify the identity of who you are calling before providing any personal or financial information. Double-check phone numbers directly on the airline’s official website, and be cautious of search engine ads and outdated services like 411. Taking these extra steps can help ensure your safety and peace of mind when making travel arrangements.

     

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